How To Talk To An Alcoholic

If you are worried about a loved one’s drinking habits, they are likely concerned about their alcohol abuse too. Sadly, alcoholism impacts the body and the brain, making it very difficult for an addict to reach out for help. With your love and support, though, it will be possible to find a suitable alcohol rehab plan that leads to long-term sobriety. 

The first step of talking to an alcoholic about their drinking habits in a way that makes them want to get help is the most daunting aspect by far. As long as you approach it in the right way, your loved one will seek the help they deserve.

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Is Your Loved One An Alcoholic?

When a loved one has an alcohol use disorder (AUD), you don’t have time to waste. However, you do not want to throw accusations around or push a family member who is in control of their drinking habits into a negative place. So, you must first confirm your suspicions.

Alcohol usage disorders may look slightly different from one person to the next due to a range of factors. Whether worried about a youngster and alcohol or someone much older, checking the symptoms is advised. Here are some things to consider;

  • Is your loved one withdrawn from social occasions, especially when alcohol isn’t involved?
  • Have they either lost or gained weight without starting a new fitness plan?
  • Are they secretive, paranoid, anxious, or generally irritable?
  • Do they turn to alcohol when stressed or if something bad happens in their life?
  • Has their body become more tolerant to alcohol?

There are a number of additional symptoms, like alcohol on their breath or bloodshot eyes, as well as issues that are a little harder to notice. However, the CDC states that at least 14.5 million Americans are currently victims of alcohol abuse. If your loved one is showing the above symptoms, now is the time to act.

Top Tips Before Making An Intervention

If you have determined that a loved one has a problem with alcoholism, you will quickly need to make an intervention. Ideally, this will result in your loved one reaching out for help via rehab or other treatments. If they won’t do it voluntarily, you may have to consider enforced assistance.

When speaking to a loved one about alcoholism, remember the following:

  • Your loved one probably feels alone in their personal battle with alcohol. So, a caring and comforting approach is always better than an aggressive one.
  • Gaining a deeper understanding of AUDs will allow you to show that you understand what they are feeling. It also gives you authority when seeking professional help.
  • It is best to avoid blaming a loved one. Instead, you should empathize with the reasons for their drinking. And you must try to help them see the benefits of sobriety.
  • It is important to do your research into alcohol rehab treatments in advance. There’s no point in mentioning their alcoholism without a subsequent strategy in place.
  • Accept the fact that they are in denial and be prepared to show patience throughout the talk. Try to avoid words like addict and just focus on the concerns.

Making An Intervention To Tackle A Loved One’s Alcoholism

Knowing how to approach the situation regarding the tone of voice and conducting a little research is great. However, you also need to plan for the process of having this talk or staging an intervention. 

It is suggested that you either handle the situation one-to-one or with a small support group of 2-5 people. Anything more than this will be scary and daunting. Follow this plan, and you won’t go far wrong.

  1. Be sure that you (and any other family members) have the day free. Also check that your loved one isn’t due for work, as they could use this as an excuse to avoid seeking help.
  2. Sit them down on the sofa or at the dining table and say that you want a chat. Gently mention that you have noticed changes in their drinking habits, appearance, or behavior. Extend the olive branch so that they can offer up information.
  3. If they start to open up, listen and show compassion. If they are hesitant, suggest that alcohol may be the source and ask what their thoughts are. It’s always best for them to realize and accept the issue.
  4. Explain your concerns for how it will affect their future, including their health, career, and relationships. Remind them of the positives in their lives and the happy moments that they could enjoy sober.
  5. Introduce the fact that you’ve looked at drug rehab options and found a service that you think could help. Tell them that it is only for a short time and that you will be ready to support them once they complete their treatment.

If the alcohol abuser is ready to seek help, it’s vital that you arrange it right away before they change their mind or relapse. Show your support by traveling to the facility with them, where you will also be able to gain extra insight into the steps ahead.

For alcohol rehab services in Colorado Springs, contact our friendly experts today.

Getting Help With Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol use disorders need treating as soon as they are identified. If you’re worried about your drinking habit or a loved one’s potentially damaging relationship with alcohol, now is the time to regain control of the situation.

Contact Peaks Recovery to discover your options today!